US$10,000 for best African entrepreneurial program

Now in its third year, the competition rewards organisations in Africa that use innovative and entrepreneurial techniques to fill gaps in educational services across the continent. Judges will be looking for projects that demonstrate entrepreneurship, sustainability and impact.

Past winners include Soft Power Education from Uganda who, working through travel companies, mobilise over 1,000 tourists yearly as volunteers on their school projects, and have now refurbished schools for more than 33,000 students.

Nik Kafka, managing director, Teach A Man To Fish said: "All the evidence shows that programs which are innovative, sustainable and create real impact are the most effective way to address educational challenges. But while many already exist in Africa, they rarely receive the recognition they deserve. This means successful models aren't identified or replicated.

"The 2009 Educating Africa Pan-African Awards for Entrepreneurship in Education draws international attention to their achievements so others can learn from their success and imitate their approach."

Winners will be selected by a panel of international judges, with the top entry receiving a prize of US$10,000 and the two runners-up prizes of US$5,000.

The top three awardees will also be sponsored to receive their prizes at an awards presentation in South Africa, where they will also take part in peer learning visits to key Educating Africa and Teach A Man to Fish projects.

Organisations with sustainable and entrepreneurial education projects can apply via the competition website, www.teachamantofish.org.uk/competition. Entries must be received before the closing date, 31 December 2009.